PINELLAS COUNTY – The Cross Bay Ferry is a step closer to returning to returning.

The service, which ferries passengers between Tampa and St. Pete’s downtowns, could return with a new local operator and new boats.

What You Need To Know

Cross Bay Ferry service moves closer to returning 

PSTA has recommended the Hubbard’s Marina group to take over ferry operations

Votes with Tampa and St. Pete city councils remain, along with PSTA contracts that need to be approved
A new ferry service could begin service by next summer

The Cross Bay Ferry service was terminated after the previous operator wanted to swap out the ferry with a slower boat. That boat would’ve taken twice as long to cross the bay, which violated their agreement with Hillsborough County.

Hillsborough County commissioners then terminated the agreement with HMS Ferries in mid April.

The U.S. Department of Transportation earlier approved a transfer of a nearly $5 million grant from the Hillsborough Area Reginal Transit Authority to the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority.

Now, after company bids to take over the service, the PSTA has recommended the Hubbard’s Marina group to take over ferry operations. The selection was unanimous among transit leaders.

The Hubbard family owns Hubbards Ferry, a Pinellas County staple that has operated passenger boats and fishing tours for decades in Madeira Beach.

Captain Dylan Hubbard’s family owns Hubbards Ferry, a Pinellas County staple that has operated passenger boats and fishing tours for decades in Madeira Beach. (Spectrum News image)

“We’re very blessed and very honored,” said Captain Dylan Hubbard of the recommendation. “And looking forward to our relationship with PSTA growing and the relationship with our cities, Tampa, Saint Pete and the local, transportation boards. It’s, definitely an exciting time.”

However, several steps remain the process before the service could resume. The PSTA plans to use the federal grant to purchase two vessels. Then, final approval would be needed from city council members in both Tampa and St. Pete, along with the PSTA board.  

A 5-year operating agreement from both cities also would have to be approved by the PSTA.

Tentative votes are scheduled for Nov. 6 in both Tampa and St. Pete. PTSA’s full board has a final vote scheduled for Dec. 3.

A revamped ferry service, rebranded Tampa Bay Ferry, and planned to run year-round for the first time, could be up and running by next summer.